- Serena Copley, the Liberal candidate for the Kiama by-election, speaks of herself as someone shaped by deep community roots and a lifetime of civic involvement. She has lived in the Shoalhaven since 1989, raised her family there, and now counts four generations living in postcode 2541. Her children were educated locally and her grandson was born in the region.
“My roots run deep and my dedication to this community is enduring,” she told me.
For the past 14 years Serena has worked as a trainer and assessor in the vocational education sector. It is work she describes as “extraordinarily rewarding,” training unemployed young people and helping them build life skills and confidence, while also working with local businesses through traineeship programs. She sees this as a natural extension into politics:
“It’s about working with people and helping people solve their problems and making our community stronger.”
Youth issues are central to her story. Serena speaks with conviction about the young people she has trained who have discovered confidence and purpose.
“It’s about reminding them that they are valuable and have something to contribute,” she said. “When you see someone realise their own worth, it’s inspiring. They are our future.”
On small business, Serena is unequivocal: “It’s the engine room of our economy.” She believes that when small business thrives, whole communities thrive too. “Small business people are the ones who sponsor the footy jerseys, support the local charities, and keep our towns vibrant. A strong small business sector means strong, connected communities.”
“Small business is the engine room of our economy. When it thrives, communities thrive too.”
Growth, she acknowledges, is part of every community’s story, and she believes Kiama can embrace it in a way that strengthens what is unique about the South Coast.
“How we grow is a choice,” she said. “We can choose growth that is responsible, sustainable, and led by community values. We can choose development that comes with the right infrastructure, schools, parks, and services, so new families are well supported, and our environment is respected.”
On political culture, Serena stresses respect.
“I can disagree forcefully and strongly, but not disrespectfully.” She believes voters are ready for politics that models collaboration, honesty, and listening. “What you’ll get is what you see. There’ll be times my parliament colleagues may not agree with me, but I’ll always do what I think is best for the community.”
Her years in local government have also shaped her views on accountability. As a Shoalhaven councillor, she pushed for council to streamline its operations before considering rate rises. For her, local government matters because its decisions are felt immediately and directly.
“When local government works well, the whole community benefits. It should be efficient, effective, and focused on people.”
In the end, she frames her candidacy as both personal and principled.
“This is not just a flash in the pan thing for me. This is a deep and abiding love of my community,” she said. “I will be the member for everybody whether you voted for me or not, because you are part of the community I care deeply about.”
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